3 Ways to Have a Healthier and Greener Halloween

This post is part of the 2012 Green Halloween® Blogfest. If you would like more information about how to have a greener and healthier Halloween, please check out the posts linked up to this Green Halloween page.

If you’re running out to buy Halloween candy this week, why not make some healthier choices this year? You’ll be sending a positive message to your family and the families in your neighborhood.1. Avoid treats that contain high fructose corn syrup.

Why avoid HFCS?
– It interferes with the body’s metabolism so that you physically cannot control your cravings. Leptin is a hormone in our bodies that tells us when we’re full, which usually leads to us making the choice to stop eating. HFCS slows down the release of Leptin so we don’t feel that urge when we should.

2. Do not buy Nestle products.
For a detailed description of why you should not support Nestle or any of their brands, please read this post by PhD in Parenting. A couple of the reasons you will come across are: 1) Nestle has knowingly promoted an infant formula that puts babies at risk. 2) They use suppliers that violate human rights and destroy the environment.

Please note that if you want to avoid Nestle products, you need to look for all of its brands. They are not all called Nestle. Brands like Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, and Raisinets are also Nestle. You can find the complete list of Nestle brands here.

If you’re on Twitter, you can rally against Nestle by using the #NoNestle hash tag. You can also voice your support on Facebook or your own blog.

3. Choose non-candy, delicious treats.
Some options that I would like to get if I were trick or treating are:
– Fig cookies or candy
– Trail mix
– Chocolate or yogurt covered raisins or pretzels
– Pumpkin seeds
– Granola bars
– Popcorn balls

What choices are you making to keep your family healthy this Halloween?